How to Become a Cost Estimators in Louisiana
Cost Estimators in Louisiana earn a median salary of $68,500/year, which is 11% below the national average. Louisiana has a state income tax of ~3.4%. After taxes and rent, a cost estimators takes home approximately $3,109/month. Most positions require Bachelor's degree.
What a cost estimators can afford in Louisiana
Becoming a cost estimators in Louisiana
Meet education requirements
Cost Estimators positions in Louisiana typically require Bachelor's degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across Louisiana. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many cost estimators positions in Louisiana require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain Louisiana licensure or certification
Louisiana may require specific licensing or professional certification for cost estimatorss. Requirements vary by state — contact the Louisiana Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in Louisiana
Louisiana employs 2,410 cost estimators. The highest concentrations are in Baton Rouge and New Orleans-Metairie.
Cost Estimators salary by metro area in Louisiana
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge | $74K | $35.5/hr | 780 |
| New Orleans-Metairie | $72K | $34.63/hr | 460 |
| Lake Charles | $72K | $34.37/hr | 140 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux | $69K | $33.12/hr | 80 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington | $67K | $32.35/hr | 140 |
| Alexandria | $66K | $31.61/hr | 70 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City | $61K | $29.46/hr | 190 |
| Hammond | $61K | $29.41/hr | 30 |
| Lafayette | $58K | $28.01/hr | 170 |
| Monroe | $53K | $25.55/hr | 90 |
Cost Estimators salary range in Louisiana
Cost Estimators careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a cost estimators make in Louisiana?▼
The median cost estimators salary in Louisiana is $68,500 per year ($32.93/hr). This is 11% below the national median of $77,070. Salaries range from $39,480 to $104,610.
What are the requirements to become a cost estimators in Louisiana?▼
Cost Estimators positions in Louisiana typically require Bachelor's degree. Louisiana may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the Louisiana licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a cost estimators afford to live in Louisiana?▼
At the median salary of $68,500, a cost estimators in Louisiana would take home approximately $4,521/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 31.2% of take-home pay going to housing. This exceeds the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for cost estimators in Louisiana?▼
The highest paying metro areas for cost estimators in Louisiana are Baton Rouge ($73,840), New Orleans-Metairie ($72,030), Lake Charles ($71,500). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does Louisiana have state income tax for cost estimators?▼
Yes, Louisiana has a state income tax rate of approximately 3.4%. On a $68,500 salary, this means roughly $2,330/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.